Earned the highest safety score in Akron. Our safety dimension weighs inspection history, deficiency records, and parent-reported safety culture across reviews.
Full Ranking Detail
childcare
Firestone Park YMCA's Betty Jane Child Learning Center is a school-based before- and after-care program for Akron Public Schools students, rated 5-star by SUTQ. Operating from 6:30 AM before-care at the main YMCA branch and 2:30–6 PM after-care at school sites, it integrates character development (caring, honesty, respect, responsibility) with catered meals, peanut-free protocols, and Praesidium-backed safety standards including secure entry and classroom cameras. Publicly funded childcare is accepted, and YMCA membership is included for full-time families. As a school-calendar program with no summer coverage at the school site and no independent parent reviews currently available, prospective families should verify the fit for their childcare needs and schedule directly with the YMCA.
Safety8.0
Curriculum7.0
Art / Music7.0
Kindergarten readiness7.0
Teacher quality8.0
Compassion7.0
Management8.0
Culture7.0
Extracurriculars7.0
Programs & curriculum
Programs & activities: Before and after school care for Akron Public Schools students. Offers Fun Days with a multitude of activities when school is not in session.
What sets it apart: Operated by Akron Area YMCA. Before care starts 6:30 AM; after care until 6:00 PM at the branch or 2:30-6 PM at schools. Tuition: before care $75/week, after care $85/week, combined $110/week, plus $40 non-refundable registration fee per child. YMCA members get reduced rates. Accepts publicly funded child care.
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Best for Safety
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<strong style="display:block;font-size:15px;color:#1A1A18;margin-bottom:5px;">Best for Safety</strong>
<span style="font-size:13px;color:#4A4A46;line-height:1.5;">Earned the highest safety score in Akron. Our safety dimension weighs inspection history, deficiency records, and parent-reported safety culture across reviews.</span>
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This recognition is awarded independently by Creative Minds Montessori based on publicly available parent reviews and public records. Centers do not pay for or request these rankings. Scores reflect editorial synthesis of verified parent experience — not center marketing materials. Rankings are updated periodically as new reviews are analyzed.
